A Note From Mike Wiegele

Memorial on the Mountain, for a Mountain of a Man

Dear Friends,

Just like you, we all were heartbroken, saddened, even shocked, by Andy’s passing to a better place to rest in peace, after a courageous battle with cancer. Even though we knew the tumor might win, we always had hopes and prayers that a miracle would happen, yet it was a miracle to have Andy even a year longer. He showed us the true value of living with the highest integrity and love, and helped everyone who got in touch with him. Andy, Daniela and Marco have and always will be a big part of our lives, and our Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing family.

Andy gave a hand to everyone in need; you didn’t have to ask for it. He was a true friend to everyone, and cared deeply for his family, Daniela and Marco. We are so thankful for this gift of love he gave to everyone.

We are so thankful for all the support that Andy, Daniela, and Marco have received from all of you. We wish to express our sincerest thanks and appreciation to all the medical personnel for their help and assistance with Andy’s care. To Dr. Tim Schmidt who travelled with Andy to Europe twice, to Dr. Robert Siorpeas and family, and Dr. Kaiser at St Johann Hospital in Innsbruck.

You will always be in our hearts and minds, and we pray for you.

Thank you, God Bless.

Mike, Bonnie, Michelle, Jonas and Charlie.

A group of Andy’s skiing friends on a ski run, giving prayer and thanks in his memory.

Andy has been a part of the Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing family for 25 years when he arrived from Austria in 1988 to follow his love of the mountains and skiing. He worked as a chef from 1988 to 1990, before he became Lodge Manager then General Manager – a position he held until 1997 when he became a Guide. He was admired and respected by all who worked with him.

Many who knew Andy during this time admired his hard work, compassion and drive to succeed. In Blue River, he met Daniela, and fell head-over-heals in love. They married, and a few short years later were blessed to welcome Marco into their family.

Andy’s integrity, kindness and loving nature was easily seen when you saw him with Marco, Daniela or his many friends. These people were his world, and many of us are honoured to be a part of it. Andy’s many great qualities now shine through in Marco.

Andy was a Lead Guide up until his diagnosis in March 2012, and was a warm, friendly face around the resort right up until the end. Andy will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and has left a hole in all of our hearts that cannot be filled.